How Technology is Taking Over the Fashion Industry
Way before the pandemic started, many of us have noticed the rapid evolution of technology. Covid just made all the technological advancements happen faster than anticipated. If you think about it, there are very few things nowadays that people do not need to use technology for. But what about the fashion industry?
Ph. Tumisu, Pixabay
Fashion did not stay behind as new technologies progressed fast forward. The biggest trend at the moment is, indeed, the metaverse and virtual fashion.
Many brands nowadays have easily featured their products and vision in the virtual space with the same value and status they have in real life.
What Is Metaverse?
The term 'metaverse' has become more widely used with the popularity of crypto and bitcoins, a whole new world is being built in front of our eyes. Ever since video games were created, a new virtual reality was introduced and this is now opening many opportunities for artists who are thriving on this new phenomenon. As for the web developers, they are trying their best to save it. But what is it all about? The New York Times defines metaverse as “a variety of virtual experiences, environments and assets that gained momentum during the online-everything shift of the pandemic”.
We can, without a doubt, say that this is a way for the community to realise that sooner or later everything could be moved into a new virtual world.
Is There Such A Thing As A Fashion Metaverse?
If everything is to be moved online nothing will be left behind and fashion is one of the things that are already there, even if it does not feel like it. As people spend more time online, CB Insights Industry Analyst Consensus estimates that virtual goods will represent a $190B market by 2025.1 The way fashion is immersed in the metaverse can be split into two categories: a combination of physical and digital, in which clothing can be worn through augmented or virtual realities, and a fully digital market in which items can be purchased directly from an avatar. Considering there is a demand for such products, more and more high-end brands are trying to make their way into the metaverse. However, with some people being sceptical about moving into virtual, brands are also showing their concerns. To test the virtual environment and digital fashion with all its perks and flaws, the majority of brands have made various collaborations with game, social, and metaverse platforms.
Ph. Mo, Pexels
The Place Of High-end Brands In The Metaverse
The virtual world is supposed to represent a flawless world, in which everyone wants to achieve perfection. Luxury is a key component in the metaverse and that is where the high-end brands can once again dominate the fashion world. Just because some of us are just now learning about the metaverse, this does not mean that it just appeared. Most brands have been working on various projects and collaborations to establish a status in the online society for years now. Louis Vuitton, for instance, released a League of Legends collection in 2019. The brand entered into a multi-year partnership with Riot Games in September that includes both physical and digital designs for the 2019 League of Legends World Championship. That is just one example of a way to be present in the metaverse. Moschino released skins for The Sims, Gucci released a digital collection for a styling app; Nike, Chanel and Balenciaga have collaborated with ‘Pokemon Go’ making virtual shoe collections.
That is just a glimpse into the virtual world. Many more things are being created on a daily basis and many more are disappearing from the real world. There is a place for everyone online, whether for better or worse. Along with trying to keep up with the trends in reality, now we would actually have to keep up with the digital ones as well. It is a challenge worth accepting.
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And Just Like That, Our Favourite Fashionistas From The City Are Back
The detail to fashion within ‘Sex And The City’ has followed through to the much-awaited reboot, ‘Just Like That’. Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), and her friends Charlotte and Miranda (Kristen Davis and Cynthia Nixon), now 10 years later, are showing how fashion will always be the best of you with their lavish and iconic looks.
Ph. Hieu Vu Minh, Unsplash
Carrie, Charlotte and Miranda are serving some iconic looks in 'And Just Like That' as they are strutting the Upper East Side, where the story continues as if it had never stopped.
If you are going to watch 'And Just Like That', you know by now that many fashionable looks will carry your fantasy away. We will start with the protagonist, Carrie, and the dress everyone is talking about.
Carrie's Buzzed Blue Dress
Carrie's midi shift dress sent fans crazy but not because people actually loved the dress itself. The light blue oversized shirt tucked under the ‘hippie-fied’, casual-looking dress is untypical for the character of Carrie. If you are a Sex & the City fan, you would think it is more likely to be seen on Miranda, her co-star. But it was not the style that made fans question the costume designers. It was where it is from that sent fans wild. Many speculations occurred, but designers released that they have no idea where the dress is from as it was found in a thrift shop – contradictory to Carrie's style and obsession for the latest designer everything. The image is from a scene where Carrie was struggling with her addiction to her late husband’s ex and, maybe, designers wanted her outfit to relate to this struggle. However, it was not a must-have for the fans.
Similar dress Izabel London Paisley Print Maxi Dress | Izabel Dress SLSS | M&Co
Charlotte's Look
With simplistic clothes, yet striking colours Charlotte's springtime outfit wowed the fans. Of course, Charlotte – a very wealthy character within the series – would strut around with a Burberry dog poop bag. She is a fashionable mom who still wants to live in style. Her outfit consisted of a Balenciaga polka dot skirt, layered with a white gipsy top. For once, Charlotte's look represents a calm and relaxed feel, rather than her rigid shirts and skirts. The look is styled with a yellow belt and pumps. The vast array of colours really and finally signifies happiness for the character. In this reboot, she is the one with her head screwed on – suggesting a change for Charlotte.
Similar skirt ASOS DESIGN asymmetric high shine skirt in blue spot print | ASOS
Similar top Fluid Women's Puff Sleeve Wide Neck Top White | Mandmdirect
When Carrie Meets Carolina Herrera
Carolina Herrera really outdid herself here with her elegant yet modern midi shirt dress. The vibrant colour really makes this piece eye-catching and an iconic dress for Carrie. The chunky black belt accentuates her waist, defining her body well. Matched with some black court heels, her pearl necklace implies her wealth and luxury. And what more would you want when visiting your late husband's ex? Carrie has brought her A-game here, and fans were completely idolised by this stunning piece.
Similar dresses Glamorous midi tiered shirt dress in pastel pink | ASOS
Hot Pink Cotton Poplin Puff Sleeve Frill Detail Smock Dress | Dresses | Smock dress | I SAW IT FIRST
Miranda's Look
Miranda's relaxed plaid dress was a hit from the fans. The neutral colours, from creams to browns and mustard, was loved as these shades are in for the season. Her brown leather belt did complete this outfit to perfection, due to the maxi dress being loose, the belt really enables Miranda not to be lost in the dress. The splits of either side of the dress as well, allow some leg to be seen and makes this entire piece a little more stylish and youthful. The shirt style dress really incorporates Miranda's personality as the character has just begun a degree, whilst the whacky prints and colours leave memories of her past outfits.
Similar dresses Free People Sadie Plaid Maxi Dress in Natural Combo | REVOLVE
Flow The Label Cotton Plaid Dress in Brown | Lyst
This sequel with our favourite girls from New York is definitely making people and fans talk about fashion but in a more in-depth way. As many things have happened to Carrie, Charlotte and Miranda, so too their outfits have changed to reflect the new women we see on the big screen.
Fashion Trends From 2021 That Will Continue in 2022
New year does not always mean new fashion trends. We are entering a time in fashion where micro-trends are going as fast as they have arrived, but some have lasted well over the past year and are expected to continue into 2022.
Courtesy of The-Cøded
Matching Co-ords Are Here To Stay
Throughout the pandemic, co-ordinates have been a popular fashion choice. During the lockdowns, loungewear co-ords were the way to go to feel comfortable and somewhat put together for the endless Zoom meeting from the kitchen table.
When restrictions eased, we were not ready to leave the cute matching two-piece aesthetic at home. So we changed the hoodie and jogger outfits for a more dressed up look. From matching monochromatic tops and skirts to slick blazers and trousers looks have been the go-to look for many.
Both loungewear and party wear co-ords continue to be a favourite in 2022, while we have this hybrid of working from home and socialising with friends. co-ordinates are now a wardrobe staple for all events and will continue to be for quite some time.
2000s Fashion Resurgence Continues
What goes around comes around, and for 2021 it was y2k fashion. It is common for fashion trends to repeat themselves every 20 years, and the 2000s is no exception. Some 2000s trends have stayed in the past like frosted tips, but many have had a modern-day revival.
Some of the firm favourites include the halter tops, baby tees and chunky trainers. In 2022, it is predicted that some more 2000 trends will be at the forefront of fashion. Controversially, this includes low rise jeans, which have already grown in popularity thanks to supermodels Bella Hadid and is predicted to be a hot choice for upcoming fashion weeks.
Sustainable Fashion At The Forefront
Ph. Artem Beliaikin, Unsplash
For many of us, the pandemic made us think more about where our clothes were made – and who really made them. This has changed the way many of us now shop, leading us to more sustainable and ethical shopping brands.
Many of us have also started to create capsule wardrobes, buying high-quality staple items that can be worn again and again.
Companies like THE-CØDED are doing their bit by working directly with clothing manufacturers around the world, ensuring that they receive a fair share of the profits. They also like to highlight their manufacturers and their forward-thinking initiatives for a completely transparent approach to online shopping. Thanks to transparent brands like THE-CØDED, finding information about who made your clothes has never been easier.
Oversized Shirts - A Wardrobe Must Have
Oversized shirts have been a fashion trend for years, and they are not going away anytime soon. Oversized shirts are such a versatile wardrobe piece, with many celebrities, including the Kardashians and Hailey Bieber, opting for the oversized look regularly in their pap shots.
Oversized shirts are a wardrobe staple that works all year round, and similar to 2000s fashion they are predicted to be a large part of runway shows during the upcoming fashion weeks.
Bye-bye Gendered Clothing
Courtesy of The-Cøded
Genderless clothing has been a growing trend on social media, with people wearing what they want regardless of who the clothing is advertised to. Many fashion houses are on board with this, as many runway shows are thought to have both male and female models wearing the same clothing during spring fashion week.
This has already been seen on the high street, with many brands now selling the same clothing in both womenswear and menswear sections – both in stores and online. This includes knitted “grandad” vests, oversized blazers and structured coats.
Overall, 2022 is set to be an interesting year for fashion as consumers are moving away from the constant trend cycle and sticking to wardrobe staples that work for them. We will certainly be thinking more about sustainably made fashion and timeless pieces this year.
What trends will you be getting on board with?
Korean Skincare Latest Trends for 2022
The popularity of K-beauty will see no cease in 2022 and we can already tell you what are going to be the next Korean skincare trends that your skin will love this year.
Courtesy of Atomy
Ruby McGrath, MD of Korean skincare brand Atomy, reveals the latest trends that will be big in 2022.
In the UK, Google research on Korean skincare went up by 200%. As its success and appreciation do not stop, K-beauty does not stop to surprise us. Here we have expert Ruby McGrath, MD of Atomy, unveiling the latest Korean trends for 2022.
'Low-irritation' Cosmetics
“Korean skincare has been influenced by a global skin concern: the so-called 'maskne'. As masks become more prevalent in our lives, it’s having an effect on our skin including dryness, redness, irritation and ‘maskne’. ‘Low-irritation’ cosmetics are designed to soothe angry pores and skin troubles.
Ceramides are incredibly popular at the moment, thanks to their skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why we have added them to every step of our The Fame Skincare Set (£85). Also available to buy as individual products, which includes Toner (£19.50), Lotion (£19.50), Essence (£20.50), Nutrition Cream (£19.50), and Eye Cream (£19.50). Ceramides act as a source of strength that protects the skin barrier and keeps skin looking and feeling healthy.”
'Skip Care'
“Skip care is all about using fewer products to get the same results. A lot of the newer formulations are combining the benefits of several products into one. Not only does this cut down on the steps in your routine, but it also contributes to less waste and fewer carbon emissions in transporting products across the globe, which is a key growth area in the industry. We combined must-have skincare ingredients like Niacinamide, Green tea, Centella, Glycerin, and Oat kernel extract to create an effective do-it-all Absolute Ampoule (£36). With this ampule, you're treating your skin to anti-ageing, soothing, exfoliating, brightening, and acne-busting ingredients. Simply top with your favourite moisturiser and SPF and you’re set for the day!”
'Scalpcare’
“In Korea, we devote as much TLC to the skin on our head as we do to our facial skincare routines, and this is only going to become more dedicated in the New Year. It’s the scalp that really controls the health of the hair. So what’s going on in the follicle and the skin around the follicle could make the difference in whether you’re losing more hair, or maintaining your hair, and whether you have healthy hair or brittle hair. Our Scalpcare Set (£23) includes a shampoo and conditioner that incorporates Niacinamide, Neem, Arnica, Shikakai, Avocado, Henna, and Biotin to cleanse, nourish and balance the scalp.”
Oral Care
“In Korea, we are very thorough when it comes to our dental hygiene. Multiply the dedication we have to our skincare by 10! We clean our teeth after every meal as well as after drinking coffee and often carry a toothbrush around with us in our bags. In some places, you can even find free toothbrushes in bathrooms. Our Atomy Toothbrush (8pcs at £8) have super slim, flexible bristles with an anti-bacterial membrane for more effective removal of plaque and also to keep the toothbrush itself clean in between uses. Our Propolis Toothpaste (4pcs at £4) uses green tea and propolis extract as they are effective in minimising bacteria growth, as well as reducing bad breath.”
The Need-To-Know Ingredient
“Last but certainly not least we have the need-to-know ingredient for 2022. In 2021 Korea saw a large increase in supplement consumption, as our knowledge of the benefits of inner health and wellbeing for our outer, increases. Ellagic acid acts as an antioxidant and can decrease levels of inflammation to protect against disease. It can also help lighten your skin by blocking the activity of an enzyme involved in melanin production, as well as moisturising skin from the inside out, which is why we use it in the form of our Pomegranate Mixed Fruit Jelly (60 sticks at £58). Not only will a daily dose give you skin benefits, but studies
suggest that ellagic acid has excellent hair growth-promoting activity.”
Thanks to Ruby and Atomy, K-beauty has no secrets... at least for now.
To boost your health inside and out in 2022, discover the range of Atomy skincare and wellness products online.
Monogram Mania and Tech Couture: HONOR and WGSN Unveil 2021/22 Tech and Fashion Trends
Those long months spent indoors with our tech gadgets as our companion and sole escape from reality shaped trends and our vision of fashion and goods. HONOR asked WGSN to investigate further.
Beauty Trends Forecast from Fashions Finest's LFW
In the scenographic surroundings of St John's in Hyde Park, Fashions Finest's editorial team had a privileged sight on current trends and next Spring/Summer beauty forecast.
Nail art by Julie Bryan & team. Images by V. Chirico
Fashions Finest followed the makeup, hair styling and nail art teams during its LFW showcase to explore this season's most buzzed beauty trends. We had a look at what we should expect for next season, all in the making of the show.
A good old flick through popular magazines would be enough to stay up-to-date with the latest trends. What if you could have a close encounter with the style-makers and learn from the experts? Fashions Finest followed the teams led by Michelle Strain, Julie Bryan, and Amy Tasker on this mission. We popped behind the scenes during Fashions Finest's London Fashion Week event for a preview of next Spring/Summer trends and steal the best for your autumnal look straight from the catwalk.
SS22: a 20s' touch with finger waves. Amy Tasker & team.
The warmer season will see sweet hairstyles doing their come back. 'I would expect to see volumised bouffants with textured raw hair keeping the hair feeling and looking natural, sleek wet hair with styled baby hair on the forehead giving a fresh youthful appearance and finger waves to create the 1920s' glamorous timeless appeal' says Amy Tasker, lead hairstylist.
Streetstyle and low-maintenance updos are totally in these autumn and winter months, helping us to be ready in a snap. In fact, 'the 70's shaggy look is back with the grown out middle-parted bangs and invisible layers. Box braids are really popular right now as well as random plaits throughout the hair', continues Amy.
If you feel it is time to make a change with a new hair colour, pick yours from the warm palette of the moment. 'The seasons most anticipated colours are Caramel, Honey and Gold adding more warmth into the hair. For brunettes, it's definitely Espresso and Chocolate creating more of richer look and image.' This is the expert's advice.
Whether is autumn or springtime, the very essential for your makeup look is within you: 'I think always - for every season - is just a really good skin', international makeup artist from AOFM London Michelle Strain recommends.
SS22 makeup: bright colours. Makeup by Michelle Strain & AOFM team
The makeup seems to reflect the natural colour surrounding us, as Michelle continues: 'I think we are definitely going to get more, richer colours like very bright lips with deeper tones.'
In Spring/Summer 22, the inspiration for your makeup is just outside the window with 'pastels, beautiful pretty blossom type of colours, because this is obviously what comes through with the clothing. Nice pastel pinks, peachies, blues for the eyes. Just really nice, pretty colours.'
If the next season's colour scheme comes from Mother Nature and our refreshed wardrobe, you need to know that 'definitely just a nice, glow, fresh healthy skin is always the way forward'.'
In winter/autumn nails tinge in sobriety. Julie Bryan, celebrities nail technician notices that 'people wear a lot of black in the autumn and winter. So I think the colour scheme, what we've done here today, will match autumn/winter and spring/summer. So we've got nudes: nude is going to be big as well. Loads of nudes.' As the days brighten up, so your nails do with 'a lot of neons again. They started to creep back in just as we went into lockdown. Lots of bright colours, which will be showcased in all fashion week.'
The models were sporting a rainbow of neons paired with gemstones applied as finger jewels. Without glue and rhinestones, this nail art is the idea to steal if you have some spare time for it! 'We've done the nails on the trend, so you have different neons on each end of the nail, painstakingly done', proudly points out Julie.
Every season has its colour but also its shapes too! This Autumn/Winter sees a drastic - very welcomed - change: 'coffins - some people call it coffins, some people call it 'ballerina' - that sort had its day, the nail trend that a lot of celebrities is going for is coming away from the acrylics and going more for the natural nail look.'
The beauty of nail art is in its everchanging nature, like the weather in the UK: 'the trend with nail art changes monthly, basically, so we had the mirror nails come and go, the chrome nails come and go. So it's using your own knowledge and your artistry... Just go with the flow! Don't make it too hard.'
Go with the flow, embrace natural shades and an effortless approach to hairstyling. Could you believe the catwalk was radiating so much naturalness?
More from our LFW behind the scenes? Follow Fashions Finest on Instagram.